There was drama along the Kenya–Tanzania border on Wednesday after security officers intercepted a live python that had been secretly hidden inside a passenger bus heading to Nairobi.
The shocking discovery has sparked widespread reactions online, with many Kenyans linking the incident to suspected witchcraft, although authorities have not confirmed such claims.
According to reports, the snake—estimated to be about 13 feet long—was discovered during a routine inspection at the busy Namanga border crossing.
Officers became suspicious after noticing inconsistencies in the cargo declaration. Upon opening a wooden box that had been listed as containing motor vehicle spare parts, they found the live reptile carefully concealed inside.
The bus, which was travelling from Dar es Salaam to Nairobi, was immediately detained as officers secured the scene.
The snake was safely removed and handed over to wildlife authorities for further handling and assessment. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the operation.
Police confirmed that the bus driver and conductor were arrested to assist with investigations. Authorities believe the case could be linked to illegal wildlife trafficking, a growing concern in the region where animals are often smuggled across borders for commercial or underground purposes.
The incident quickly went viral on social media, with dramatic claims emerging that a “witch doctor” had been caught transporting a massive python within Nairobi.
However, these reports remain unverified. Experts have also dismissed exaggerated claims about the snake’s size, noting that a “100-metre python” is scientifically impossible.
While investigations continue, the case has raised fresh concerns about the security of cross-border transport and the persistence of illegal wildlife trade networks operating in East Africa.
Authorities have urged the public to rely on verified information and avoid spreading misleading claims that could cause unnecessary panic.
The seized python is expected to be relocated to a safe environment under the supervision of wildlife officials as the probe into its origin and intended destination continues.
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